The Impact of Duty Hour Restrictions on Orthopedic Surgical Training

The 80-hour work week in medical training presents challenges to orthopedic surgery residents to acquire the necessary knowledge and technical skills within 5 years. To maximize training efficiency, orthopedic training programs have responded by modifying the resident work schedule to include a night float system, incorporating physician extenders to maintain continuity of patient care, and utilizing technology in the form of online educational materials and surgical simulators. A better work-life balance is becoming more attainable for residents, but the question remains whether the cost of compliance is resident confidence and competence within current duty hour restrictions.